January 2017
Issue 42
London Calypso Icon Ashton ‘Mighty Tiger’ Moore 1940 –1 2017
Contents Cricket in Caribbean Curriculum p.4 Fashion Cities Africa p.5 Aston Moore p.8 Let us be Real about National Agenda p.11 Rum Talk p.14 Policing, BOGOF p.16 Africa Today p.17 Cindy Mollineau’s Carnival Essentials p.20 Caribbean Today p.22 The Appendix Do Have a Function p.26
Production and concept: D.T. Kalloo
Culturepulse is designed and produced by Cashewmedia ltd and published online through www.issuu.com Copyright 2016 Views and comments expressed by contributors are not necessary those of Culturepulse but of the author/s.
For all enquiries, please contact: 07738864335 cashewmedialtd@gmail.com Culturepulse list of contributors’ to making the magazine a success. Natalie Alicia Dookie Lyndon Brathwaite, Ansel Wong, David Wears, Chris Boothman, Nasser Khan, Malaika Crichlow, Amos Armstrong, Soshina Stephen, David Rudder, Jimmy Kainja, Paul Ade, Akilah Holder-Stewart, Michael La Rose, Dr Michelle Yaa, Dr Juanita CoxWestmaas, Dianne A Kalloo, Shabaka Thompson, Ron Ramdin, Rhianna Kalloo, Angelique, Dorothy Scott, Memory Pincheck, Erica WilliamsConnell, Darren Lewis, Tessa Robinson, Cindy Mollineau, Omardath Maharaj, Selena Carty, Alison Bajaican, Mahalia Mayne and Afridiziak.
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What an introduction to 2017! Donald Trump sworn as the 45th President of the United States of America, Britain preparing for Brexit, snow falling in the Sahara Desert and in parts of Spain that never seen snow. Beads and bikini will again be the showcase appearance at Trinidad carnival and, if you intend to attend Notting Hill Carnival, chances are, you will need a ticket. Let’s not forget too, Julian Assange ready to be extradited to the US. That said, Culturepulse would like to welcome back Mahalia Mayne to our pages, a writer who went off to complete a course in journalism. It is great to see this young writer pursuing her dream and still finding time to share her stories with us. Mahalia is a keen reviewer of the arts and we are proud and honoured that she has returned to the pages of Culturepulse with a review she penned of the recently concluded exhibition at Brighton museum on African fashion. On a sad note, we have lost a formidable icon in the British Calypso circle, Ashton Moore aka Mighty Tiger. He was the President of the Association of British Calypsonians (ABC). Ashton came to Britain from Trinidad in 1971 where he sang under the sobriquet ‘Young Tiger’ at the Southern Brigade calypso tent. In Britain, he dedicated most of his life to promoting the art and culture from his homeland, Trinidad and Tobago. For those of you travelling to Trinidad for carnival 2017 be sure to check out Cindy Mollineau’s ‘Carnival Essentials’ on page 22 for your carnival makeup survival kit.
David Kalloo Editor cashewmedialtd@gmail.com
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The History of Cricket in the Caribbean Curriculum
region and does Physical Education (PE), they’ll understand not just the physical part of it, but the historical and the social context as well,” she said. Beckford was a member of the panel that looked at the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) syllabus for Physical Education.
The history of cricket as a subject could be added to the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) Examinations Physical Education curriculum if the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) has its way, the Jamaica Star has reported.
“Physical Education is being looked at broadly. For example, at the SBA [School Based Assessment] level, you could jolly well do a cricket project as part of your assessment. It’s just to get it as a subject matter for PE,” she said. Beckford and the WICB have been meeting with CXC to make the curriculum addition a reality and she said talks between both organizations are ongoing. Article courtesy Caribbean 360.com http://www.caribbean360.com/news/crick et-cxc-curriculum#ixzz4Vq9stPro
WICB Marketing and Communications Manager Carole Beckford says that the body wants to have the subject added, saying the intention is to have the younger generation understand how important the sport is to Caribbean unity. “Physical Education is already on the CXC (Caribbean Examinations Council) Curriculum. Because of the strong history of cricket as a subject, we thought it would have been an important partnership with CXC to ensure that the history of West Indies Cricket is being carried on – that people understand how important it is, whether it’s social, business or political. “If a young student passes through the 4
Fashion Cities Africa
By Mahalia Mayne
African cities don’t always have the economic ability as the rest of the fashion world. In the 1980s and 1990s the freetrade policies devastated textile production, but the designer display by 2manysiblings, founded by Velma Rossa and Papa Petit in Nairobi shows how reclaiming clothing can be created into a fashionable masterpiece.
When thinking of African fashion, what do we really associate it with and what do we know about the culture and its influences on the modern fashion world? The compelling Fashion Cities Africa exhibition at the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery explores all of this and how the world should look upon it as a key inspiration.
Take a display by Yinka Illori on wax prints. If you ever buy a piece and don’t know what to do with it, the masterpiece he creates gives you a whole list of inspirational thoughts and jogged my memory of my mother using her wax prints materials to design her carrier bags at one point.
Developed with African fashion specialist Hannah Azieb Pool and Helen Jennings, Fashion Cities Africa takes you along a trail of African fashion and style in four major cities: Johannesburg (South Africa), Nairobi(Kenya), Casablanca(Morocco) and Lagos(Nigeria) and how these cities can be an inspiration for others in the international fashion world.
The exhibition is structured into three rooms and what is particularly impressive is the history of the cities in each room, and how designers, bloggers and journalists are showcasing their talents in each unique region making Africa a future fashion phenomenon.
While many designers reduce African fashion to some sort of cliché, something to wear at traditional African celebrations, the styles that are shown here are a contrast to that. It is sexy but modern and keeps its African roots.
http://brightonmuseums.org.uk/brighton/ex hibitions-displays/fashion-cities-africa Photographs courtesy: www.brightonmuseums.org.uk
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Ulysse Nardin Chronometers From the movement of the sea, to the motion of Haute Horlogerie. Since the peak of seafaring trade in the 19th century, Ulysse Nardin has been crafting precision timekeeping instruments, helping navigators find their way across the sea. The Swiss watchmaker combines 170 years of craftsmanship and constant innovation in each elegant timepiece. The Ulysse Nardin Marine Chronometer is one of the Swiss watchmaker’s most iconic pieces, a stunning example of the most extreme precision in mechanical watchmaking. With its UN-118 caliber movement, designed and manufacture red entirely in-house, and its distinctive design that pays homage to those early marine chronometers, the Marine Chronometer is beloved by collectors and amateurs alike. Discover the story of the Marine Chronometer, and explore more unique Ulysse Nardin timepieces on the Ulysse Nardin Youtube channel, or go to the website to find to find your nearest retailer. www.ulysse-nardin.com
www.ulysse-nardin.com
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London Calypso Icon Ashton ‘Mighty Tiger’ Moore minded fellow Calypsonians in 1991 to form the Association of British Calypsonians (ABC) to promote the art form and to protect vulnerable Calypsonians from unreliable promoters and various forms of exploitation in the music industry, and then to launch the London Calypso Tent in 1992. The ABC’s overall aim is to create and provide Calypso music of the very highest standards and Ashton worked tirelessly to produce the annual London Calypso Tent to educate the young and all lovers of music with the aim of increasing the popularity of one of the greatest Carnival art forms.
ASHTON “Mighty Tiger” MOORE, 1940 – 2017 Ashton “Mighty Tiger” Moore was the President and one of the founding members of the Association of British Calypsonians (ABC), the only body in the UK and Europe that promotes the art, culture and ethos of Calypso. When he arrived in the UK from Trinidad & Tobago in 1971, he was already a seasoned professional Calypsonian, having cut his teeth in the Southern Brigade as the “Young Tiger”. From there he moved on to Lord Kitchener’s Calypso Review Tent and then decamped to the Victory Tent singing with all the Calypso Greats. He toured the UK with The Mighty Sparrow and Paul Keens Douglas before getting involved with the Notting Hill Carnival. Despite the paucity of opportunity in London in the early 1970s he remained devoted to his craft, and by 1974 he had proved himself to be more than capable of flying the flag for Trinidad & Tobago culture, performing whenever and wherever possible.
As the ABC grew in strength and stature, the Mighty Tiger continued to work unstintingly to ensure that Calypso is recognised, appreciated and enjoyed by as diverse an audience as possible. Perhaps one of his greatest triumphs was to approach the Trinidad & Tobago government almost 20 years ago, to form the Calypso Youth Exchange Programme. In essence, he saw that to encourage British youths to sing and enjoy Calypso he had to prove it was a young people’s music and over the years he organised workshops with children all over the UK. In conjunction with the T&T Ministry of Culture, the winner of the T&T Junior Monarch Calypso Competition came to London to perform and it is now fair to say that the impact of this Calypso Youth Exchange Programme is greatly responsible for the growth and popularity of Calypso in the UK today. He also founded the Black History Junior Calypso Monarch Competition to encourage children of Caribbean parentage to sing about their Black heroes. He also forged links with the Trinbago Unified Calypsonians’ Organisation (TUCO) enabling UK Calypsonians to perform in Tents in T&T and vice versa.
In 1975 he won his first British Calypso Monarch title in Hammersmith and went on to win the crown a further nine times, retiring from competition as the undefeated UK Calypso Monarch. His enthusiasm and devotion to Calypso resulted in him getting together with like8
The Mighty Tiger became the Calypsonian's representative on the Board of the then Notting Hill Carnival Limited and held the distinction of being the longest serving member on that Carnival body, always remaining fervent about his duty to promote Carnival and Calypso in London and throughout Europe. Ashton was also very actively involved in the Yaa Asantewaa Arts and Community Centre, London’s leading centre for Black Cultural Arts and was a founding member of the innovative Carnival Village Project, playing an instrumental fundraising role in the creation of an appreciative space for the cultural art forms of Carnival in the UK. Ashton Moore was honoured over the years for his work both in Trinidad and the UK. AWARDS RECEIVED: 1986 (UK) The Notting Hill Carnival Award for work in Calypso and Carnival 1998 (UK) Barber Green Committee for Contribution to Calypso and Soca 2001 (UK) The ABC Award at their 10th Anniversary 2001 (T&T) The ABC Trinidad & Tobago Award for service to Calypso in the UK 2002 (UK) Hackney Mardi Gras Award for Calypso Music 2004 (UK) G & H Promotion Community Award for Calypso 2004 (UK) Trinidad & Tobago High Commission Cultural Award 2005 (UK) British Association of Steel bands Award for Carnival and Calypso 2006 (UK) Yaa Aasanteewaa Achievement Award 2007 (UK) Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Mayors Award for Culture, Calypso and Carnival 2008 (T&T) - The Fyzabad Improvement Committee 1983 in collaboration with PetroTrin Oilfields Tubal Uriah ‘Buzz’ Butler Par Excellence Award for Culture, Local and International
precursor to the Notting Hill Carnival. The ABC’s first home was the Yaa Asantewaa Arts Centre for many years. Together with Yaa, the ABC founded what is now known as Carnival Village working alongside two other cultural organizations – Ebony Steel Band and Mangrove Masquerade and Steel Band – to offer varied aspects of the Carnival Arts. The ABC’s aims and objectives include: Promoting the culture of Calypso originating from Calypsonians based in the United Kingdom to audiences in the UK, Europe and worldwide. Educating and encouraging the development of the Calypso tradition by establishing workshops for training in all aspects of the production of Calypso and ensuring that Calypso is promoted to its best advantage. To enter into agreements with administrators, researchers, authors, composers, producers, artists and/or any other persons in regard to the furtherance of the aims of the ABC and the talents of its members. Making itself open to schools, colleges, universities and other public educational forums for workshop participation. Over the past years, the ABC has formed links and/or worked with Arts Council England, Westminster Council, The Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea, Luton Carnival Arts Centre, Organization of Calypso Performing Artists of Canada, Trinidad & Tobago’s Unified Calypsonians Organization, the BBC and WACK Radio of Trinidad & Tobago. The Executive Committee remains passionately committed to the role that the ABC plays in making known the relevance of the art form that is Calypso music. Courtesy: The Association of British Calypsonians The Yaa Centre, 1 Chippenham Mews, London W9 2AN Email: britishcalypsonians@gmail.com Website: www.britishcalypsonians.com
The ABC was formed in the spring of 1991 and offered itself to a culturally conscious and curious public in 1992 through its London Calypso Tent which has become the premier annual cultural 9
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Let Us Be Real about the National Development Agenda in 2017 By Omardath Maharaj A programme of 30 voluntary ‘BE LOCAL IN 2016’ activities was pursued and ended in the Laventille West constituency in partnership with M.P. Fitzgerald Hinds recently, being the 2nd year that our ‘Eat Local Day’ celebration moved from the valleys to the hills to share fresh fruits, vegetables, seedlings, camaraderie and education to thousands of constituents, some of whom suffer from food and nutrition insecurity. It was on the backdrop of Minister Hinds’ admonition at the launch of the Beetham Beautification Competition that “to get State-paid operatives to go there takes far longer than it should, because of their fear and perception of the community.”
On December 29, 2015, Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley, in an Address to the Nation, announced the measures that will be taken to stabilize Trinidad and Tobago's economic standing as oil and gas prices continue to tumble. Among the measures was that “consumers are encouraged to support and purchase local products and abandon foreign products, to sustain the economy.” While farmers, fishers and niche market operators continue to encourage citizens to be local and indigenize their spending and consumption, we must recognize that they cannot go at the mammoth task alone. Continuing years of advocacy around the local food industry, stakeholders shared indigenous knowledge in several forums and invited all in Trinidad and Tobago, especially policy-makers and administrators, to share in the local version and vision of a better future through supporting healthy eating, education, environment and economy this year.
While we pay tribute to those who have accepted the challenge to work with the vulnerable in our country, rural and coastal communities, voluntarily through mentorship and technical advice; we must remember that consumer education is a public good that helps consumers make informed choices about their food and nutrition intake. In the current and anticipated economic circumstances facing Trinidad and Tobago, we cannot deny the fact that the cost of living and economic hardship is on the rise. It is therefore a necessity for policymakers to do more towards preserving food and nutrition security at the household level, protect and strengthen the men and women who feed the nation and, to act aggressively to stabilize sentiment and build consensus on the way forward.
Movements built on the ‘National Fruit Festival’, ‘Eat Local Day’, tours to agricultural estates and other grassroots efforts including threats to the national fishery, which exist without State support and vision sharing, are becoming increasingly concerned about the industry and their way of life if simple support in solidarity is not forthcoming. Although we have spent millions of dollars over the years on public relations campaigns that sought to mimic the approach of the wider world, it has arguably wasted opportunities and possibly weakened the national appreciation and understanding of the local food industry.
Our Prime Minister has spoken repeatedly about patriotism, what we can do for our country, volunteerism and leadership deficits on several national issues. 11
Remember, for everything we have 'lost', we have gained something else. We acknowledge the price to be paid, the material things, and even opportunities that we may have 'lost'. It remains my hope that the best is yet to come. At this time, we do not have the policy commitment or the signals that the economy or country will consider or rely on agriculture as a cornerstone of the diversification thrust and thus it lingers on the national development agenda. The challenges facing the local food production industry are known but should no longer be accepted. Every citizen and stakeholder must come together, now, to participate and develop a coherent national policy framework which considers sustainable agriculture and rural development.
However, giving respect must be reciprocal in the struggle for national food security. We must focus attention at the grassroots level, the epitome of just that. There is no longer any room for learning by doing but to partner with proven success if the goal is industry development, national food security and sufficiency. Efforts born by the bare hands of farmers, fishers and entrepreneurs have the potential to link agriculture, fisheries, rural and coastal economies to the challenges faced by all other stakeholders who are critical in propelling development in Trinidad and Tobago. However, we are a long way from putting any value from these opportunities in the hands of the people who need them the most.
Although Trinidad and Tobago is not at crisis levels with our food supply, being import-dependent with a burgeoning annual food import bill of approximately TT$ 6 billion, declining foreign exchange reserves and increasing pressure on exchange rates, and widening current account and fiscal deficits; we must focus on our food independence sooner than later. In addition to agriculture sector policy and targets, greater emphasis must be placed on actions that citizens can take for themselves, at home or in public spaces, which brings the greatest return within our environment – both economic and ecological. The outcome of which, possibly not anticipated by some, will be irreversible.
Local food production, food and nutrition security also continues to be challenged by uncertainty and failing consumer confidence, in a time of rising food prices and unemployment. Given the greatness of the sector to promote economic growth, environmental protection and poverty alleviation there remains a need for greater public education, awareness and engagement on the local food industry as a significant cornerstone in the prosperity of our people and our country. To whom much is given, much is now expected.
A dependence and training of tastes and preferences for imported food from birth to inextricably linked to the present difficulty in weaning children, youths and the working-class population of the need to satisfy a westernised diet. The issue of a burgeoning food import bill is therefore 12
more chronic and requires a deeper approach than is currently used to support local.
the food industry will bring people closer to the land and encourage greater respect for the men and women who feed our country.
The global economic environment is changing. Regional economics and industries, which were once the mainstay, are being forced to do business differently notwithstanding the inherent providers of economic success albeit agriculture, energy and tourism. A major factor relatively untapped for CARICOM is strategic location vis-Ă -vis emerging economies, trade routes and significant trade infrastructure development in Latin America; a global hub. Other factors which can strengthen the next wave of globalisation for the region are our geopolitical cohesiveness, skilled and developed workforce, residual energy resources, multi-lingual, no political adversaries, natural harbours, some level of public infrastructure and trade supporting services, diverse culture and cultural appreciation as well as a consensus that the region is open for business. Globalised thinking is timely as some of the major economies in the region are stagnating after a focus on North- South relationships with the United States of America and the European Union.
We need to focus on sustaining people and their lives Omardath Maharaj Agricultural Economist and a regular contributor to Culturepulse magazine. Please contact 683-1173 for any further information
Local food production is therefore not without its own challenges but we must find creative, innovative and attractive methods to get greater local content into the national diet and capitalise on the diaspora potential and complementarity abroad. We need to bring back food production as an old-time religion. Educating on, and understanding 13
Rum Talk… David Kalloo Luck has it you can’t get either of the rums mentioned above, well don’t panic! Head down to Cottons in Notting Hill Gate. Cottons have the world’s largest selection of rums in their ‘solon de Rhum’ with 372 samples of rum that is commercially available. Try a shot of Khukri Rum at £12.50 a shot or better still seek out a bottle of El Dorado Grand Special Reserve, released in 2016 to commemorate Guyana’s 50th year of Independence. It’s a steal at £2,750 a bottle, making it almost £106 a shot.
When we talk about rum, the UK is the last place that comes to mind regarding the exotic spirit. At one time the talk of rum in the UK went as far as Bacardi and Lambs Navy rum, not so today. Over the last few years with Rumfest becoming a regular fixture in the UK, as well as other venues globally to promote rum as a chic spirit, rum has now found its way into the UK market. Walk into any supermarket, or liquor store and you’re sure to find a variety of rums to indulge your fancy and, at prices to frighten your credit card too. But hold a minute, would you have expected to find a rum made in the UK? Well that is exactly was has been brewing in the far reaches of Scotland and in Sussex, where they’re dubbed the Caribbean of the UK.
www.clovenhoof.com Specialty Drinks, 020 8838 9362 Vino Wines, 0131 452 8235
Scotland has come up with a sleek rum called Seawolf. It is Scotland’s first rum from Bramble in Edinburgh. The only drawback here is only 300 bottles were made and at a price tag of £29.99 it is highly unlikely you will be able to get your hands on a bottle at you neighbourhood store. This is rum made the traditional way with cane molasses, so keep your eyes out for the next batch. Spiced rum is the way to get the younger generation drinking the spirit and a Sussex landlord has tapped into the market and produced a spicy rum called Cloven Hoof. Two rum base is used to produce Cloven Hoof, one from Guyana and the other from Trinidad. Both rums are combined and then infused with a host of spices including cloves. The good news is, there are 2300 bottles made so chances are you could get your hands on a bottle or two for around £25.00 for 70cl.
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What is in your Rice? It has been alleged that China has been producing fake rice for at least four years, and it is still on the market. Singapore media reported that this “rice” is produced with potatoes, sweet potatoes and – believe it or not – poisonous plastic. It is shaped like regular rice grains but remains hard after cooking and can cause serious health issues. The rice in question China’s Wuchang rice, is very popular because the real Wuchang rice is famous for its smell, and it costs more for its quality (almost double the price), according to Blue Ocean Network (BON) TV report, a popular English Channel in China. But many consumers still don’t know what they’re getting. An undercover journalist has found out that in order to make the fake rice, a small amount of real Wuchang rice is mixed with plastic rice, sprayed with a fragrance to replicate the original rice smell, packaged and shipped to stores across China. It was reported that annually 800,000 tons of real Wuchang rice is produced, yet 10 million tons of “Wuchang” rice is sold – whether plastic or another type of rice; more than 9 million tons of it is fake. Eating three bowls of this rice is equal to consuming about one plastic bag; it can be dangerous and can cause serious digestive issues, and even be fatal if consumed daily. The issue is now affecting the Caribbean and Africa, with reported cases now in Jamaica and Nigeria, with advisory that the batches may have been made locally. Like in China most people in Jamaica eat rice as part of their staple, making this a very serious problem. The distributors have said
that selling this rice in large qualities is very profitable, according to Korean Times. Has the technology moved continents? Migration Watch has reported that China has established a remarkable presence in Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) over the past two decades. If the technology to include plastics within the food chain has reached these regions, then local governments have more to concern themselves with other than cheap imported
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Policing, Buy-One-Get-One-Free Since 2008 the Metropolitan Police have been running a scheme, MetPatrol Plus in conjunction with London mayor’s office. The scheme is dubbed ‘buy-one-get-onefree’ or BOGOF as is commonly known in retail speak. This form of policing is paid for by businesses, parish councils, local authorities and communities where the officers are used for specific needs in the area. In some instances, to tackle gangs, knife crimes or anti-social behaviour.
concerned that the scheme is not meant to replace normal policing. To date, there has been no conflict with those paying for policing and the Met police. Concerns have been raise however of the increase policing in one area as opposed to another and the displacing of criminal activity from one area to another. These concerns have been echoed by the Police Foundation also. A spokesperson for the organisation have cited that ‘the scheme risk creating a two-tier police economy’ whereby the rich could be better disposed to paying for extra policing. To date, only one well-to-do area in Hampstead where residents attempted to get a scheme off the ground for MetPatrol Plus officers. However, despite raising £210,000 the scheme was met with ‘institutional’ resistance. Police numbers on the street have fallen at an alarming rate over the last few years and as a recent MORI poll showed, between 2006 and 2010, London lost 4% of its bobbies on the beat. The rest of England and Wales suffered more with 17% reduction. The loss in London was offset with the number of Community Support Officers on the street. The current change in crime trends and more policing cuts expected will certainly have an effect on officers walking the streets. This is a growing concern for; not just businesses, but for communities as a whole at national level. Clearly, boroughs across England and Wales would want to ensure safety for its residence and business community and it could well lead to the rise of the buyone-get-one-free policing.
The idea of the scheme is when you pay for one officer, you automatically get another free. Prices vary in accordance to needs; a constable ranges from £66,000 a year and an Inspector £95,000. Almost three quarters of London boroughs fund the scheme with around 348 officers deployed under the MetPatrol Plus. There are concerns that these numbers may rise according to the National Police Chiefs’ Council voicing that ‘the era of bobbies on the beat was ending.’ This means that businesses and communities wanting safer environs would place a greater demand for officers in local areas. Budget cuts to policing in the city and across the country means that police recruitment may not substantiate demands and, it could see the MetPatrol Plus scheme being served to the highest bidder. However, Metropolitan Police said that MetPatrol Plus officers can be recalled where emergencies arise. The Metropolitan Police have assured those
D. Kalloo
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Africa Today Africa’s top 5 female scientists for the year 2016 were honoured by the African Union (AU) at its headquarters in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Abada earlier this month. The winners were pooled from all the continents regions except Central Africa. West Africa had two recipients with East, North and Southern Africa completing the list with one each.
Zambia’s controversial ‘Mother’s Day’ law applicable to all women. The new Zambian law makes reference to mothers, but applies to all working women irrespective of whether they are mothers or not. According to Zambia’s labour laws, female workers are allowed to take a day off duty each month. The law is a reprieve to women during the time of the month – when they are in their period. The law is so wide open that women are allowed to absent themselves when they want to and without any medical justification to back their absence – that seems to be the major point of contention, interestingly among men and women alike. According to a Zambian official. They are educating women about Mother’s Day, telling them that on that day, they are meant to be resting and not go out shopping or engage in any other physical work activity as it would be wrong. The law further indicates that any employer who denies their employees the right to ‘Mother’s Day’ could be prosecuted. As per the law, a simple call is enough from the employee is enough notification.
The Kwame Nkrumah Scientific Award was named after Ghana’s first President the celebrated Pan-Africanist, Dr Kwame Nkrumah. Scientists were awarded at national, regional, and continental levels. The European Union (EU) who has sponsored the event since 2009 said. ‘The EU strives for the fullest contribution from women to science, by ensuring gender equality and gender mainstreaming in research because encouraging gender diversity supports scientific excellence.’
The labour unions in the country however, provide a rather restrictive explanation of what the law really means. A union leader said ‘a woman did not even have to leave her house on ‘Mother’s Day’ they are supposed to spend the entire day at home.’ According to a trustee for Zambia Congress of Trade Unions ‘the entitlement would have to be forfeited if a woman were to take it on a day that she did not have her period.’ Those in favour of the law say it is only fair to notice and reward the efforts of working women who have to
Each of the women laureates gets $20,000 cash prize for their efforts. The AU launched the award in September 2008 and with the EU’s support for the programme means there is greater EU-Africa collaboration Science, Technology & Innovation (STI), under the Human Development component of the Joint Africa-EU Strategy.
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combine domestic chores with their professional engagements. Women – married or not do a lot of multitasking and deserves the day off. Opponents argue that aside from the vague aspects of the law, it also encourages laziness in working women. They say menses are a normal natural occurrence in women, a process akin to pregnancy and child birth.
Best Actress and a BAFTA Rising Star Award.
Zambian Federation of Employees (ZFE) have voiced their concerns about the new law saying, they are worried about how the law could affect businesses, especially because women could skip planned assignments with the excuse of taking Mother’s Day. ‘Imagine a company that has a number of employees and six or seven take ‘Mother’s Day’ on the same day, what will happen to productivity?’ The day was observed in the 1990s before it became law. The labour Minister Joyce Nonde-Simukoko warned that women should not attempt to abuse the privilege.
Other nominees in Ruth Negga’s category are Isabelle Huppert (Elle), Natalie Portman (Jackie), Emma Stone (La La Land) and Meryl Streep (Florence Foster Jenkins).
She was raised by her Irish mother after her Ethiopian father died in a motor accident when Ruth was a young girl. Other films that she starred in includes, Capital Letters (2004), Isolation (2005), Breakfast on Pluto (2005) and Warcraft (2016).
Ethiopian-born actress, Ruth Negga has been nominated for the prestigious Oscars. She is nominated for ‘Actress in a Leading Role’ category for her role in the 2016 movie, Loving. The film was released in the United States last year was directed by Jeff Nichols with Ruth starring alongside Joel Edgeton as the main characters. Ruth Negga’s performance in the movie Loving will pitch her against four other contenders for the award. The film borders on the true-life story of a Virginia couple who had to live through the days when inter-racial marriages were outlawed. Her role in Loving has won her other nominations aside from the Oscars and include, the Golden Globe Awards for Best Actress in a Motion Picture -Drama. Independent Spirit Award for Best Female Lead, Critics’ Choice Movie Award for
Stories and photographs courtesy Africanews.com
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Carnival Essentials by Cindy Mollineau - MUA Christmas is now a distant memory and New Year’s resolution is quickly becoming a distant memory as all attention is now focused on Trinidad & Tobago Carnival! This is an event that is near and dear to Trinbagonians and Carnival lovers the world over. So, the checklist has begun. Flights, parties and your crew checked! But most of all is your Carnival costume and makeup! Both Monday and Tuesday demands masqueraders to be on fleek and ofcourse, a good face beat is mandatory! So, if you’re late to the party, on fleek means you’re looking on point, good and well put together. Face beat, refers to your makeup being on point. Over the past couple of years, Instagram and the Kardashians have helped popularise makeup trends and always being photo ready. And at carnival time, makeup is a must and required accompaniment to your very vibrant and feathered costume. So, here are a few tips from a fellow masquerader and makeup artist.
Essentials to keep your makeup on point all day. 1. Eyelash glue: Use the sample sized glue that comes with your strip lashes to re-stick any gems and lashes that may have become dislodged during your merriment during the day. It’s small and if lost, you're not going to be upset. 2. Lipstick: Matte lipsticks are great as they usually stay in place all day. You can eat and drink all day and it does not budge. Local cosmetics brand Sacha Cosmetics has a superb range of vibrant matte lipsticks that stays in place whatever the weather. It costs approximately £8 and you can buy it at any Pennywise Stores and Sacha outlet nationwide. If you lose it during the revelry you can easily replace after carnival… you would want to get a few of these colours to remind you of the warmth and fun, you had when you’re back in the UK wishing for some colour and sunshine! 3. Makeup DIY: If you were the unfortunate person to not have your makeup done professionally then concentrate your makeup on gems and lips. Your costume will make you stand out and gems can be used strategically to cover flaws and make you look fabulous and festive! 4. Pat don’t rub: It’s 33⁰C and you're baking in the glorious sunshine. You will perspire and your face will be damp. So, pat your face with facial tissue. Fold the tissue around two fingers and pat your face. Do not rub especially if you have foundation, gems and glitter on your face. 5. Clear Nail Varnish: Snag your lights with a dab of clear nail varnish. Find the smallest bottle possible. It doesn’t have to be expensive as it’s only going to be used on the road to stop any ladders in your tights. 20
All these items are small and easy to carry until you don’t need them anymore. They can be tucked into your boots or a small purse or bag. Lastly, remember to HAVE FUN! Be safe, always stay with your crew, drink responsibly and have your designated driver on standby…. I will be in Trinidad for Carnival as well so if you want your makeup done for fetes, carnival Monday or Tuesday, the please contact me via Facebook www.facebook.com/cindymollineau or email at cindy.mollineau@gmail.com. …See you on the road…
Here are a few services that may be useful while in Trinidad.
UBER is now in Trinidad and a welcomed addition to the carnival season. Sacha Cosmetics: for all your makeup needs Carnivalista www.carnivalista.com: for carnival tights, boots and other accessories for carnival
Samaroo’s: For all your carnival accessories, sequins, glitter, etc. 3 locations. http://www.samaroosgroup.com Makeup Artists in Trinidad: Lola Lawrence Francis: Based in Chaguanas. Her Facebook page is www.facebook.com/Made-In-Edentt-byChantal-and-Jodi Anika Pilgrim-Gaspard: Located in Arima/Trincity area. Her Facebook page is www.facebook.com/glamfacesbyanika
Cindy Mollineau Beauty & Holistic Therapist Independent Distributor for Forever Living Products and Independent Presenter for Younique Products
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Photographs courtesy Cindy Mollineau
Caribbean Today The Guyana City Constabulary is currently critically short- staffed yet, it is drafting officers from already overstretched duties to police the newly implemented Parking Meter scheme.
consumers are looking at ways to save. More and more people are shopping on the internet and that has resulted in reduced spending at home.” Many business owners disagree with the minister, citing high taxes and the ever-increasing cost of imported raw materials and violent crime activity as contributors to the problem they face.
The Chief Constable for the City Constabulary recently acknowledged that the department is ‘currently short by 138 staff members’ yet despite this shortfall officers from other teams will be dispatched to deal with issues belonging to Smart City Solutions (SCS), the company responsible for the newly implemented on street parking control. The system if not rectified soon could pose serious for the City Constabulary who is responsible for prevention and detection of crime in Georgetown. They are also responsible for municipal duties such as municipal markets, vending and general security across City Hall and its buildings.
There is an urgent need for the government to attract foreign investment in the area rather than blame the attitudes of shoppers for the current decline in spending. However, Bradley Felix insists that businesses need to ‘take stock and identify what is working and do what is necessary to meet the needs of the consumer’ while acknowledging that the business environment is challenging and only the fittest will survive. The St Lucian Prime Minister is due to make an announcement on a reduction of Value Added Tax as part of his preelection promise.
A spokesperson for the department said that a department short of its full complement of staff is certain to encounter problems in meeting demand. The Chief Constable Andrew Foo said. “It’s very tight because we are constrained in terms of numbers and will have to work with whatever resources it has until additional persons can be recruited.
Guyana’s government will impose from the beginning of February 2017 an Environmental Levy on non-returnable units. Consumers in Guyana will now have to pay a $10 levy on every non-returnable unit of metal, plastic or glass container of alcohol, non-alcoholic, beverage or water.
The St Lucian minister responsible for Commerce, Industry, Investment, Enterprise Development and Consumer Affairs Bradley Felix, told a gathering of delegates at a Trade show recently that the government should not be expected to create jobs.
The Guyana Revenue Authority said the “Levy will be applicable to non-returnable units imported or locally manufactured.” According to an official statement, the levy is an important move as ‘Guyana transforms into a more sustainable, green economy.’ The move comes with some resistance from Demerara Waves who said the Levy violates CARICOM trade rules.
Minister Felix was responding to complaints from businesses in Rodney Bay where restaurant and bar owners have seen a slowdown in revenue. The minister said. “People’s priorities have changed. Prices of goods are increasing and most
While Guyana is imposing its Environmental Levy Trinidad and Tobago’s soft drinks manufacturer SMJ, 22
the largest non-alcoholic manufacturer in the English-speaking Caribbean has now made it possible for its fun size kidfriendly soft drink, Chubby available online on Amazon.com.
Minister pledged that her ministry will work to ensure the reduction of the disease by enhancing the public health services offered to patients. She said that, “active surveillance and competence-building programmes are in place and, the Ministry of Public Health intends to work hand-inhand with the Ministry of Social Protection to conduct therapeutic programmes for patients living with the disease.”
Leprosy has seen a significant decline worldwide however, as health officials gathered to mark World Leprosy Day, Guyana’s Health minister, Dr. Karen Cummings that there have been 54 reported cases of leprosy in Guyana. In marking the 64th year of World Leprosy Day Dr. Nikita McKenzie noted that it is still one of the ‘most neglected infectious disease’ today. According to the World Health Organisation, leprosy is a chronic disease caused by a slow multiplying bacillus or rod-shaped bacterium called Mycobacterium leprae. Left untreated it causes nerve damage in the three main areas of the body; the face, hands and feet. It then affects the sensory motor functions within the areas compromised, resulting in the inability to feel and or move the parts of the body affected. In the 1990s the World Health Organisation launched a worldwide campaign to eliminate leprosy, a goal which had satisfactory results by 2002. During a review in 2014, it was found that over 120 countries were without ‘high prevalence rates of leprosy. However, Dr. Karen Cummings noted that in Guyana, they are still battling to eliminate the disease and the stigma attached to it. She said. “There are cases that are not found; many out there that are being misdiagnosed and not seeking help because of the stigma it attracts.” The Ministry of Health have invested in training several people on how to handle leprosy cases and are now able to visit several regions to assist with the National Leprosy Control Programme. The Health 23
There are around 200 million people identifying themselves as being of African descent live in the Americas. Many millions more live in other parts of the world, outside of the African continent. Whether as descendants of the victims of the transatlantic slave trade or as more recent migrants, they constitute some of the poorest and most marginalized groups. Studies and findings by international and national bodies demonstrate that people of African descent still have limited access to quality education, health services, housing and social security. In many cases, their situation remains largely invisible, and insufficient recognition and respect has been given to the efforts of people of African descent to seek redress for their present condition. They all too often experience discrimination in their access to justice, and face alarmingly high rates of police violence, together with racial profiling. Furthermore, their degree of political participation is often low, both in voting and in occupying political positions. In addition, people of African descent can suffer from multiple, aggravated or intersecting forms of discrimination based on other related grounds, such as age, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, social origin, property, disability, birth, or other status. The promotion and protection of human rights of people of African descent has been a priority concern for the United Nations. The Durban Declaration and Programme of Action acknowledged that people of African descent were victims of slavery, the slave trade and colonialism, and continue to be victims of their consequences. The Durban process raised the visibility of people of African descent and contributed to a substantive advancement in the promotion and protection of their rights as a result of concrete actions taken by States, the United Nations, other international and regional bodies and civil society. Still, despite these advances, racism and racial discrimination, both direct and indirect, de facto and de jure, continue to manifest themselves in inequality and disadvantage. The International Decade for People of African Descent, proclaimed by General Assembly resolution 68/237 and to be observed from 2015 to 2024, provides a solid framework for the United Nations, Member States, civil society and all other relevant actors to join together with people of African descent and take effective measures for the implementation of the programme of activities in the spirit of recognition, justice and development. It is also a unique opportunity to build on the International Year for People of African Descent, which was observed by the international community in 2011, and to further underline the important contribution made by people of African descent to our societies and to propose concrete measures to promote their full inclusion and to combat racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance. For further information and details of events go to: 24 http://www.un.org/en/events/africandescentdecade/index.shtml
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The Appendix Does Have A Function Until recently, it was the common belief by medical practitioners and scientists, that the Appendix served no real purpose to us since we evolved into carnivores. Many doctors believe that the vermiform appendix, will as we evolve, cease to exist in our bodies.
pains. This is done to minimise the likelihood of conducting additional surgery. According to researchers at Dukes University Medical Center, the human ‘digestive system is full of bacteria necessary to digest food. When attacked from diseases, sometimes these important kinds of bacteria are purged and killed off. The appendix acts as a reservoir of good bacteria. After the immune system beats off the disease, the bacteria emerge to recolonize the gut’ playing a helpful role in the human body.
So, what really is the function of the appendix, an organ barely 4 inches long that is attached to your colon? According to research by physicians, it was believed that the appendix is a ‘vestigial organ, a remainder’ from the time when humans were herbivores and needed an ‘additional organ to break down the roughage’ that they dined on. Until recently, this was the consensus and, it was a safe option to remove it from the body when appendicitis occurred.
Researchers said that ‘individuals without an appendix may be four times more likely to suffer from recurrent Clostridium difficile colitis, an irritation of the large intestine by spore-forming bacteria.’ This condition is normally presents itself when the body is running low on gut flora which has led to the connection between the appendix and its role in maintaining probiotic levels. While there is still further investigation to be carried out, scientists believe the ‘conclusion is clear – the appendix is important for health.’
New research carried out in Australia, France and the US found that the appendix serves the body to a far greater extent than had previously believed. One study published in the Nature Immunology shows that the ‘appendix may in fact act as a reservoir’ for good bacteria that is responsible for contributing to our good health. The findings contradict the common belief that the appendix was a pointless appendage.
Professor Gabrielle Belz at Melbourne’s Walter and Eliza Institute supports the research at Dukes University Medical
It has been a common thought that air travel aggravated appendicitis and that astronauts had to have theirs removed before embarking on space flights, however, there is no evidence to support this. Surgeons will normally perform prophylactic appendectomies on patients undergoing abdominal surgery. This is normally considered when patients are having an ‘ovarian cyst removed or hysterectomy’ especially in cases where the patient has a history of abdominal
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Center, adding that, “a balanced microbiome is essential for recovery from bacterial threats to the gut health, such as food poisoning. Without this balance, some people are faced with the unpalatable option of restoring populations of good bacteria by faecal transplant.” This simply means cleaning and straining faeces in between to maintain healthy gut and remove bad bacteria.
Jamaica Diaspora Tourism Questionnaire Research is being undertaken by Dr. Indianna Minto-Coy and Miss Melesha Manderson, both of the University of the West Indies, Mona in Kingston, Jamaica. The purpose of this research is to assess the viability of diaspora tourism and the potential role of the Jamaica diaspora in helping to improve Jamaica's image as a tourist destination. The research also seeks to identify strategies for improving diaspora tourism in Jamaica.
In the UK alone, over 40,000 people are hospitalised each year with appendicitis and ‘appendix removal’ being one of the most common procedures. 16 million people worldwide are affected with appendicitis with more than 72,000 deaths globally. According to Professor Belz. “it certainly requires more research and we may wish to rethink whether the appendix is so irrelevant to our health.”
The information you supply will be maintained in strictest confidence and results will only be published at an aggregated level. Your time and co-operation to complete the survey is greatly appreciated. Should you require further information or clarification, please contact us at TELEPHONE: (1876) 977-7174 and EMAIL: indianna.mintocoy@gmail.com melesha.manderson@gmail.com.
Although research has now attached greater importance to the appendix and its role in the human body, it is still a potential risk when it becomes inflamed. When inflamed, it can rapture and have fatal consequences if not treated urgently. While appendicitis doesn’t always have to be removed it cannot be ignored.
*Please return completed questionnaires to: indianna.mintocoy@gmail.com and melesha.manderson@gmail.com by February 6, 2017.
David Kalloo NB: Email the above addresses for questionnaire.
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